Sepsis and Septic Shock in Dogs
Sepsis and Septic Shock in Dogs
A serious infection that spreads through the body. Know the signs. Get help fast.
What is sepsis in dogs?
Sepsis happens when an infection spreads through the body and the immune system overreacts. Blood vessels leak. Blood pressure can drop. Organs may not get enough blood.
Septic shock is the most dangerous stage — blood pressure stays low even with fluids, and organs start to fail. This is an emergency.
What causes it?
Almost any serious infection can lead to sepsis. Common sources include:
- Infected wounds or abscesses
- Urinary tract infections that spread
- Pneumonia or other lung infections
- GI infections or a perforated gut
- Pyometra (infected uterus) in unspayed females
- Dental infections that enter the bloodstream
Worried your dog has an infection spreading?
Same-day help when you need it — call or request an appointment.
Warning signs
- Very low energy or collapse
- Fever — or a body that feels cold
- Fast breathing or panting at rest
- Pale, blue, or bright-red gums
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or not eating
- Fast heart rate and weak pulse
- Confusion or not responding normally
If your dog collapses, has pale gums, or struggles to breathe — call now. Do not wait.
How we help
At DAMC we move fast: exam, bloodwork, and often IV fluids right away. Treatment may include antibiotics, oxygen, blood-pressure support, pain control, and care for the infection source (wound, uterus, tooth, etc.).
Many dogs need hospital care. The sooner treatment starts, the better the chance of recovery.
Dog collapsing or pale gums? Call now.
Do not wait on septic shock. We are open seven days a week.